This paper provides an overview of the main concepts involved in the assessment and management of fishing capacity. It discusses why capacity management and the problem of overcapacity have
become key issues for fisheries management in the new millennium. The paper explains why overcapacity develops in the fishery and the role that fisheries management has played in contributing
to this develoment in the past. Methods for estimating current and desired levels of capacity are discussed in a non-technical manner, and a range of potential indicators of overcapacity is
described. The effectiveness of various capacity management programmes that have been applied in various fisheries around the world is also discussed, along with an explanation as to why many
of these programmes have been ineffective. Potential management systems that have proven effective in reducnig overcapacity are also presented and discussed.
